I don't know if there are already a thread of this topic, but anyone knows any Scriptures that explain the Martial Arts? You know if it encourages violence, or it's just another type of sport. Please feel free to argue your opinion!
I think that some of them are good, but have others that it's so violent and people just win when the other is knocked out...

I don't know if there are already a thread of this topic, but anyone knows any Scriptures that explain the Martial Arts? You know if it encourages violence, or it's just another type of sport. Please feel free to argue your opinion!
I think that some of them are good, but have others that it's so violent and people just win when the other is knocked out...

Dear friend, I do not know of any actual mention in our scriptures, but of course we are to love all mankind, show kindness and compassion.
We are taught it is better to be killed than kill.

But if you wish to learn such an art for useful and peaceful reason, I feel there is nothing in our writings to forbid you, it is how you use such an art, this is the center of the matter.

Quote:

God has created us all human, and all countries of the world are parts of the same globe. We are all His servants. He is kind and just to all. Why should we be unkind and unjust to each other? He provides for all. Why should we deprive one another? He protects and preserves all. Why should we kill our fellow creatures? If this warfare and strife be for the sake of religion, it is evident that it violates the spirit and basis of all religion. All the divine Manifestations have proclaimed the oneness of God and the unity of mankind. They have taught that men should love and mutually help each other in order that they might progress. Now if this conception of religion be true, its essential principle is the oneness of humanity. The fundamental truth of the Manifestations is peace.

True, but one need not kill in self defense. I actually don't know of any modern martial art that would encourage killing in self defense.

Also:

"A hitherto untranslated Tablet from 'Abdu'l-Bahá, however, points out that in the case of attack by robbers and highwaymen, a Bahá'í should not surrender himself, but should try, as far as circumstances permit, to defend himself, and later on lodge a complaint with the government authorities. In a letter written on behalf of the Guardian, he also indicates that in an emergency when there is no legal force at hand to appeal to, a Bahá'í is justified in defending his life. In another letter the Guardian has further point out that the assault of an irresponsible assailant upon a Bahá'í should be resisted by the Bahá'í, who would be justified, under such circumstances, in protecting his life." -Letter from UHJ 1969-05-26